Gorgeous in grey: Redesigning a family kitchen

The challenge for these homeowners was to create a functional space within the architecture of their Victorian home. They didn’t want to lose its old-world charm; it called for a redesign that respected the original architecture but also embraced modern design.

Corner cupboards are often difficult to access; here, a stack of shelves is the perfect alternative, holding cookbooks, collectables and everyday appliances. Glazed porcelain Patricia Urquiola ‘Azulej Mutina’ tiles from Academy Tiles on the splashback complement the quiet hues elsewhere. Glazed porcelain Patricia Urquiola ‘Azulej Mutina’ tiles on the splashback add contrast and give the kitchen true wow factor.

The Carrara marble of the island bench and benchtop is just one of many details that create harmony between old and new. Not all marble slabs are equal so it’s worth taking the time to find a particularly beautiful piece. If the marble is honed, it will have a smooth, matt finish that is easier to look after. Wide American oak floorboards come pre-finished in a combination of greys and warm browns, creating an overall restrained, calm backdrop. The floorboards in Mink Grey are available from Royal Oak Floors.

Another play on the modern-meets-Victorian design scheme is the pairing of a traditional Acquello butler’s sink from The English Tapware Company with a contemporary matt black gooseneck mixer from the Astra Walker Icon collection. The mixer gives a contemporary twist to the business end of the kitchen, referencing the grey and white patterned tiles on the splashback.